England against South Africa: Women's Cricket World Cup Semi-Final

The eagerly awaited semi-final between the English side and South Africa in the Women’s Cricket World Cup is underway at the Guwahati stadium. The English squad clinched the toss and opted to bowl, hoping to apply early pressure against their opponents' batting order.

Highlights

• National anthems were sung prior to the start, and the Proteas' rousing anthem earning praise.
• Playing XIs were announced with both sides fielding competitive elevens.
• The English team won the toss and chose to bowl. Captain Nat Sciver-Brunt emphasized the importance of sticking to their plans.
• Ecclestone is fit to take part even with some discomfort.

Live Match Updates

Seventh Over: The Proteas 41 for no loss (Laura Wolvaardt 24 runs, Tazmin Brits 13 runs)

NSB brought herself on to replace Bell. No boundaries were conceded, due to quick work in the field from Tammy Beaumont near the rope.

6th Over: South Africa 35 without loss (Wolvaardt 22, Tazmin Brits 10)

The South African opener, looking in great touch, hit two consecutive fours from Smith. A full toss was dispatched to the off-side boundary, followed by a loose ball through cover point.

Fifth Over: The Proteas 27 for no wicket (Wolvaardt 14, Tazmin Brits 10)

A moment of hesitation nearly cost Brits a dismissal, but the fielding effort from NSB wasn't on target. Brits then replied with a powerful shot a wide delivery past cover to the boundary. Bell finished the over with a sharp delivery that bounced over Brits' bat.

Fourth Over: South Africa 21-0 (Laura Wolvaardt 13, Tazmin Brits 6 runs)

Smith bowled a tidy over. Despite the earlier chance, reports indicate the English team have the top fielding record in the tournament.

3rd Over: The Proteas 19-0 (Wolvaardt 12 runs, Brits 5)

A half-chance went begging. Tazmin Brits struck fiercely a ball toward Lauren Bell, that raced for four runs.

2nd Over: The Proteas 14-0 (Wolvaardt 12, Tazmin Brits 1)

Overcast conditions hovered over the venue, with the lights in use. Linsey Smith appeared more comfortable than in her previous match yet bowled a poor ball which Wolvaardt punished to the off-side boundary for a boundary.

First Over: The Proteas 9-0 (Laura Wolvaardt 8, Tazmin Brits 0 runs)

Bell opened the bowling with the new ball. The South African batter seized the opportunity, hitting the first ball elegantly through the covers for four. Another wide delivery was slashed for another boundary. The bowler then tightened her line, yielding only a single off a wide ball.

Match Preview

The pitch reportedly differs from the one used in the teams' first encounter. It's been called a surface with red soil, promising extra bounce and help for the seamers.

The two sides have had inconsistent form throughout the tournament. The English team are considered favourites, but the Proteas have the potential of springing a surprise. Past records indicate that England have won earlier knockout clashes when these teams met.

“Brace yourselves, things are about to get intense.” The pressure is on as both teams aim for a spot in the championship match.

Keep following for more updates as the match unfolds.